nerve cell

noun

1
: a grayish or reddish granular cell with specialized processes that is the fundamental functional unit of nervous tissue transmitting and receiving nerve impulses : neuron
2
: cell body

Examples of nerve cell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Glioblastoma is an aggressive type of brain cancer that starts in cells called astrocytes, which support nerve cells. — Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 26 June 2026 The condition is progressive, with nerve cell damage in the brain increasing over time. — Yi-Jin Yu, ABC News, 1 July 2026 Coffee and tea also contain compounds that may reduce brain inflammation and protect nerve cells from cognitive decline. — Lauren Pastrana, CBS News, 29 June 2026 Transcranial magnetic stimulation, which uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, has also been trialled for efficacy. — Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for nerve cell

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of nerve cell was in 1840

Rhymes for nerve cell

See All Rhymes for nerve cell

Browse Nearby Words

nerve agent
nerve cell
nerve center
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Nerve cell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nerve%20cell. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

nerve cell

noun
: neuron
also : cell body

Medical Definition

nerve cell

noun
1
: a grayish or reddish granular cell with specialized processes that is the fundamental functional unit of nervous tissue : neuron
2
: cell body

More from Merriam-Webster on nerve cell

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about nerve cell

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